On September 26, 2025, Region 10 filed a Consent Agreement and Final Order resolving violations of the Clean Water Act by Pacific Hide & Fur Depot, dba Pacific Steel and Recycling, for its steel and scrap recycling facility in Lewiston, Idaho. Region 10 alleges that the Respondent failed to comply with its National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Multi-Sector General Permit (MSGP) for Stormwater Discharges Associated with Industrial Activity. Alleged violations include inadequately conducting routine facility inspections, quarterly visual assessments, and benchmark monitoring, and failing to maintain an adequate Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP).
Since erosion leads to sediment and other pollutants entering Waters of the United States, the EPA estimates that this action has helped reduce 5,505 lb of total suspended solids (TSS) and 144 lb of iron from discharging off-site and reaching Clearwater River. This will also prevent pollutant loadings of approximately 2,994 lb of chemical oxygen demand (COD) and 352 lb of biological oxygen demand (BOD5) in the River. The Respondent has agreed to pay a penalty of $74,250 and has returned to compliance. The estimated cost of injunctive relief is $10,000.